News, information and updates on the transition and first 100 days of Dr. Shawn Joseph as Director of Metro Schools.

My name is Shawn Joseph, and I am the new Director of Schools.

I cannot tell you how excited I am to be in Nashville at this moment in time to lead this school district.

I believe Nashville has more potential for great things in public education than almost any city in the country. That is because your Board of Education and your community have come together around the common goal of improving the lives of all children through education. I’ve never seen the type of community support for public education like I’ve seen here in Nashville, and that is why I chose to come here.

I am honored that the Board has entrusted me with the great responsibility of leading Metro Schools from good to great. I came here to work for your children, and we will need everyone’s help to make sure every child in Nashville – regardless of background or circumstance – is given access to a high-quality education and the opportunities it opens up in life.

One of the first things I am doing is to visit with families in each school cluster to listen to what you have to say about the future of our schools. I want to hear your thoughts on what’s working and what’s not, so that we can develop a plan to take us forward that addresses your needs and hopes for your child’s education. Look for details about these “Listen & Learn” meetings in the “Meet” section of this website.

I believe long-term improvements in public education are only sustainable when the work is done collaboratively with all stakeholders having a voice. All of us – teachers, parents, students, and community members from across the city – must work together as one team to build real, lasting change.

I am very excited to be a part of this team, and I look forward to meeting you at the community meetings we will hold this summer as we begin this important work.